Why did states with smaller populations support the New Jersey Plan?
The Constitutional Convention of 1787 was a pivotal moment in American history where delegates gathered to revise the Articles of Confederation. One of the key debates during the Convention was about representation in Congress. States with smaller populations favored the New Jersey Plan, which proposed equal representation for all states, regardless of their size.
Equal Votes for All States
The New Jersey Plan was introduced by William Paterson as an alternative to the Virginia Plan, which called for representation based on population size. Under the New Jersey Plan, each state would have an equal number of votes in Congress, ensuring that smaller states would not be overshadowed by larger states. This was seen as a fair and democratic way to give every state a voice in the federal government.
Protecting State Sovereignty
Smaller states were concerned about being marginalized in a system where representation was based on population. They feared that larger states would dominate the decision-making process and disregard the interests of smaller states. The New Jersey Plan offered a solution to this problem by guaranteeing each state an equal say in Congress, thus protecting their sovereignty and preventing tyranny of the majority.
Achieving Consensus
In the end, the Great Compromise, also known as the Connecticut Compromise, resolved the debate over representation in Congress by creating a bicameral legislature with a House of Representatives based on population and a Senate with equal representation for all states. This compromise balanced the interests of both small and large states, ensuring that the new Constitution would be ratified.
In conclusion, states with smaller populations greatly supported the New Jersey Plan because it granted equal representation in Congress. By advocating for equal votes for all states, the New Jersey Plan addressed the concerns of smaller states and helped pave the way for the creation of a more perfect union.
Why did states with smaller populations support the New Jersey Plan?
Because everyone would get an equal amount of votes, regardless of population size.